La Esperanza responds to community needs
The COVID-19 emergency is changing the way we respond to community needs. La Esperanza and other organizations are using new approaches to deliver services. La Esperanza has shifted to accommodate new needs, such as helping community members complete unemployment and SNAP applications, and coordinating screening sites with La Rosa Health Center. Staff is also providing assistance via WhatsApp and Facebook, providing information and addressing concerns.
Community unites to feed children
As unemployment rises, more families need help obtaining food. School districts have continued to provide meals for anyone age 18 and younger. People in some areas report difficulty getting to food pickup sites. Schools will begin deliveries to those areas by partnering with Food Bank of Delaware and Schell Brothers. Organizations such as La Esperanza are partnering with food pantries to ensure people have access to food.
Los Ayudantes forms to deliver facts
The need for clear and accurate information has risen, especially in the Latino population where language and access barriers exist. The new Facebook group Los Ayudantes offers news, resources and legislative updates in English and Spanish. It’s important for clients to receive information that gives them a sense of relief rather than fear.
Education goes home
Districts are lending Chromebooks to students with internet access at home. La Esperanza has received emergency COVID funds to purchase and distribute laptops to families who do not have access to technology and will not receive one from school. Resources are emerging to support parents. In addition to offering online classes for teenagers, TeenSHARP in collaboration with Delaware CAN has hosted parent nights (Una Platica Con Los Padres).
TeenSHARP is also offering a program to support teens with advanced courses (TeenSHARP Cyber SPARK Scholars Pursuing Academy Rigor and Knowledge).